32+ Things to Do in Lucerne for That You Can’t Miss! (2022 Guide)

Located within the Swiss Alps south of Zurich, Lucerne, Switzerland lies ready to be found. A mixture of nature and metropolis, there’s no scarcity of issues to do in Lucerne, whether or not you’re visiting for tradition and historical past or just to eat and revel in your self (as one does on trip!).

To make it easier to see one of the best of this one-of-a-kind metropolis, we’ve put collectively this listing of 32+ of one of the best issues to do in Lucerne City.

Whether you need to simply stroll alongside Lake Lucerne or do the various adventurous issues round it, tright here’s one thing for everybody right here.

With that being stated, make sure you give it a learn to see all that’s ready for you on this Swiss paradise!

Lucerne Things to Do Highlights

Where is Lucerne?

First issues first. In case you’re questioning, Lucerne is a quaint, picturesque city in Switzerland.

Also often called Luzern in German, it is likely one of the most beautiful areas within the nation, therefore its recognition amongst vacationers worldwide. 

More particularly, this city is situated on the north finish of Lake Lucerne, which is lovingly often called Vierwaldstättersee amongst locals. Lake Lucerne is likely one of the most iconic sights in Switzerland and rightly so!

Lake Lucerne is 114 sq. kilometers and has a number of area for swimming and boat cruising. If you’re planning a visit to Lucerne, the most effective issues to do is to go on a ship trip so you’ll be able to correctly discover Lake Lucerne.

Aside from this, Lucerne is the primary metropolis to affix the Swiss Confederation and is likely one of the most visited locations in Switzerland. It has a wonderful previous city stuffed with a number of historic sights.

While it’s thought of a “compact” vacation spot, there are quite a few issues to do and sights to see! Lucerne is straightforward to discover and you’ll positively benefit from the elegant historic buildings, pretty environment, and naturally, picturesque mountain surroundings throughout.

Best Time to Visit Lucerne

Lucerne is definitely an incredible vacation spot to go to any time of the yr. Different sights would draw vacationers in always. You’ll expertise a singular appeal all through every season! That stated, let’s break it down by the months based mostly on the climate, finances, and occasions.

June to September is Lucerne’s peak season when you’ll be able to expertise nice climate. Because of that, count on it to be stuffed with vacationers and guests! During this time, you’ll be able to count on a number of folks hanging round Lake Lucerne, making probably the most out of the gorgeous climate.

Because Lucerne is close to the Alps, you’ll be able to count on cool climate even through the summer time season, with temperatures starting from 12-24 levels Celsius from June to August. The temperatures could drop just a few levels come September.

You will need to go to Lucerne throughout these months to benefit from the outside for biking excursions and climbing. But once more, these months (particularly July to August) are extraordinarily busy and the priciest, so it’s advisable to guide every little thing prematurely and to pack heat garments to remain comfy.

October to May is the off-peak season in Lucerne, the place you’ll be able to count on fewer vacationers and cheaper journey offers. If you’re keen on snowboarding, then November to April is the time to go to, which is the snowboarding season within the space. The temperatures will dip in October, starting from 6-14 levels Celsius. It may even hit the negatives till February. Expect it to be very chilly throughout these occasions, even when the temperatures start rising in March.

While it might be extraordinarily chilly February to March are nice occasions to go as nicely, since that is Lucerne’s carnival competition! 

So, the time of yr you wish to go to Lucerne will rely in your objectives, climate preferences, and the occasions you’d prefer to attend.

Best Things to Do in Lucerne

1. Marvel at Mount Pilatus

As quickly as you arrive in Lucerne, you’ll be confronted with an unparalleled view of this majestic mountain. Standing 2,128 meters excessive above the town, Mount Pilatus is nicknamed “Dragon Mountain” resulting from folklore claiming that dragons with magical therapeutic powers lived on the prime.

A go to to the summit is a must-do in Lucerne, and it’s somewhat accessible even in the event you left your climbing boots at residence. During the summer time you’re capable of take a Golden Tour that can take you by paddle steamer from Lucerne, and then you definitely’ll climb aboard the steepest cogwheel railway within the world. 

Once you attain the highest and take within the sights, you’ll be capable to take a cable automotive again down, having fun with the beautiful view all the means.

If you need to see Mount Pilatus from a unique angle, you’ll be able to even take a helicopter flight over this mountain and close by Mount Rigi!

Whichever means you select to bask within the glory of this mountain, it’s actually a prime factor to do in Lucerne.

2. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Lucerne

Another Lucerne landmark that merely can’t be missed is Lake Lucerne. Situated proper in the course of the town, you’ll be able to take pleasure in views of the pristine water by strolling alongside the banks or hopping aboard a historic paddlewheel steamer.

The complete time you’re close to lake Lucerne, you’ll have beautiful views of the encompassing alps and the distinct metropolis that appears inside an arm’s attain. We notably love this native crusing tour.

Top Tip: Want to discover Lake Lucerne with a touch of luxurious? Hop aboard a panoramic yacht that’ll take you across the lake on a 1-hour cruise.

If you’ve time to spare, go for the gourmand lunch cruise, which affords each filled with scrumptious meals and superb views. Seeing Lucerne from the water is splendid!

3.Stroll across the Old Town

The Old Town is a staple of Lucerne, so make sure you head there to take pleasure in some medieval structure, wander via slender streets, and naturally decide up souvenirs to carry again residence with you. You’ll additionally discover a number of the finest locations to eat in Lucerne in Old Town so make sure you cease for some lunch!

While exploring the Old Town, don’t neglect to cease by the Church of St. Leodegar (also called Hof Church by locals) for some tradition and the Town Hall for some historical past. The Town Hall is definitely recognized due to its distinctive structure and the massive clock city that stands out even from a distance. 

Insider Tip: If you’re searching for extra issues to do, take a look at this 2 day Lucerne itinerary!

We advocate occurring this strolling tour across the metropolis which covers all the principle sights whereas providing you with perception into the distinctive tradition of the place. You will go to the foremost church buildings,  Chapel Bridge, and extra.

4. Explore Hofkirche

One of the dominant options of the Lucerne skyline is the dual church spires rising up above the remainder of the town. These spires belong to the Church of St. Leodegar, or Hofkirche, a Roman Catholic place of worship constructed within the 1630s.

Hofkirche is likely one of the most essential Renaissance church buildings in Switzerland, so it attracts folks from far and huge to revel within the constructing’s glory.

When you enter the church, you’ll be confronted with gold alters, excessive curved ceilings, and lavish decor all through. There are lovely carvings and work depicting scenes from historical past, in addition to arcades that home tombs belonging to previous Lucerne households. 

If you’re visiting in the summertime, make sure you test the church’s schedule as a result of there are sometimes live shows performed on the church’s organ!

5. Visit the Musegg Wall

The defenses of Lucerne had been raised by the tip of the 14^th century and had been used to defend the city from the north’s sharp slope. The Mussel Wall gives you a wide ranging view, with 9 tall towers in a row. 

Four of those towers are nonetheless accessible, together with Zytturm, probably the most well-known tower holding Lucerne’s oldest clock. OF course, you could test the opposite three towers, which is able to give spectacular views of the lake and metropolis. 

6. Sleep in a Castle

If you’re searching for lodging in Lucerne, Château Gütsch gives you a style of what it’s prefer to be royalty.

A real Nineteenth-century citadel, the inside of this chateau was renovated to present friends the final word royal remedy. Enjoy rooms that look out immediately over the city, lake and surrounding mountains, whereas enjoyable in your soft, spacious suite.

7. Visit the Jesuit Church

Built proper after Hofkirche, the Jesuit Church in Lucerne can be an attraction price stopping in once you traverse via the previous city of Lucerne.

A Baroque-style construction, the Jesuit Church was constructed over the course of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and was the primary of its type north of the Alps. Inside, you’ll discover a wonderful and lightweight environment, with work on the ceiling and a lavish altar accented with gold.

Located proper on the river financial institution, this can be a good place to spend a day getting some tradition and sunshine on the similar time. 

8. Visit the Richard Wagner Museum

Renowned German composer Richard Wagner needed to go away Munich in 1865 resulting from hassle along with his affairs. In truth, it was Ludwig II who pressured him out! Wagner was given a manor home in Lucerne, the place he lived for six years. This was the place he started writing Götterdämmerung and Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg.

The Richard Wagner museum was once his residence and right here, you’ll be able to study all about him and the way he spent his years in Lucerne. You can discover musical manuscripts, work, photographs, furnishings, correspondence, and even his Erard piano!

The Richard Wagner Museum is a well-liked attraction in Lucerne!

9. Traverse the Town Walls and Towers

While you’re within the Old Town, make sure you stroll across the Old City Walls that had been constructed over 600 years in the past.

Along the partitions, you’ll discover 9 tall towers with pointed tops. Four of those towers are nonetheless accessible to guests, so get climbing to absorb views of the town and environment. This is likely one of the finest viewpoints in Lucerne previous city! 

The 4 towers throughout the previous city which are accessible are Schirmer, Zyt, Wacht and Mannli.

Zyt is especially particular due to the clock within the tower that chimes one minute earlier than the remainder of the clocks within the metropolis. I assume there are some particular perks that include being over 600 years previous! 

10. Wander throughout Chapel Bridge

The Chapel Bridge is one other historic must-see when making your means via Lucerne.

Built in 1333, this coated bridge creates a crossing over the Reuss River. It’s really the world’s oldest truss bridge that’s nonetheless standing!

On the ceiling of the bridge’s cowl, you’ll discover a number of work depicting Lucerne’s historical past. Unfortunately, in 1993, there was a hearth that destroyed many of the masterpieces that make the Chapel Bridge so particular. However, there are nonetheless 30 of the originals which have been restored and are able to be seen by keen guests. 

Besides the historic significance this bridge holds, you’ll be confronted with superb river views whereas strolling throughout it. This is certainly a marvel price visiting! 

11. Fly over the Alps

If you need to see Lucerne and its environment from a fowl’s eye view, take an aerial tour over the Swiss Alps.

This scenic flight takes off proper subsequent to the lake and flies over loads of highlights within the area. But in the event you’d prefer to see one thing particular, you’ll be able to even ask your pilot to steer you there! 

The route isn’t set, so that you’re capable of have a custom-made expertise hovering over Lucerne.

12. Visit the Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre

The Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre was created by Jean Nouvel, taking form from 1995-2000. One explicit characteristic that instantly catches everybody’s consideration is the flat roof that pushes out over the huge waterfront.

Inside the superb construction are the first-class live performance corridor and Lucerne Art Museum, the place you’ll be able to respect artworks courting from the Renaissance to the current occasions.

After exploring the world, you’ll be able to take a break within the World Café for some very effective ccoffee, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in stews through the chilly climate or ice cream come summer time. 

13. Check Out the Reuss River

The metropolis has one other medieval bridge downriver close to Old Town, which is the Spreuer Bridge. This bridge was constructed within the 15^th century and has an analogous design to Chapel Bridge. It has a roof, truss design, and 17^th-century work on pediments. 

As you head on additional downriver, you’ll come throughout the Nadelwehr or the Needle Dam. You will get to see extra of Lucerne and study how these constructions are essential to guard the town from floods. 

14. Take a Trip to the Lion Monument

Lion Monument is a Lucerne staple and incorporates a gorgeously carved lion in a sandstone cliff. While it might not look like a lot, Lion Monument will be described as a small oasis within the hustle and bustle of the town.

Built within the early 1800s, the monument pays homage to the Swiss Guards who defended King Louis XVI through the storming of the Tuileries in 1792.

It’s a wonderful space with a pensive environment. The statue itself is splendidly detailed, and the lion’s expressiveness is as lifelike as the actual factor and is a good way to commemorate the bravery of the Swiss Guards. 

It gained’t take lengthy to go to the Lion, so it’s positively price testing. There’s rather a lot to do within the surrounding space, so this can be a pretty peaceable break throughout your keep in Lucerne!

Travel Must: We love renting automobiles every time we travel- it simply offers you a lot freedom to discover at your personal tempo. Click right here to match automotive rental costs You’ll be shocked at how inexpensive it’s!

15. Ride the Cog Railway

Europe’s first cog railway is situated in Lucerne, the place you’ll be able to trip from Lake Lucerne to Mt. Rigi, which has an elevation of a whopping 1,798 meters! 

What makes this journey worthwhile is that you could trip in restored automobiles that date again so far as the very starting of the railway’s operations, with some steam engines courting again to the Nineteen Twenties. 

It is the world’s steepest cogwheel railway and is a should go to when in Lucerne. Moreover, you’ll benefit from the views, which stretch all the way in which to Germany’s the Black Forest. 

16. Go Hiking

Lucerne is a hiker’s paradise. Even individuals who like to stroll and discover their environment will benefit from the city, as it’s stuffed with flat lakeside paths. Hikers can discover difficult trails with steeper terrains for extra of a calorie burner.

If you’re questioning the place to start, take a look at Lake Rot. More difficult trails are in Bireggwald, which is near the town and has views of Mt. Pilatus.

17. Gallivant via Glacier Garden

If you suppose the 1800s was a very long time in the past, swing by Glacier Garden to witness potholes fashioned within the final Ice Age. We’re speaking 20,000 years in the past! 

Located proper subsequent to Lion Monument, Glacier Garden options interactive exhibitions and multimedia displays that can assist you perceive these archaic phenomena.

Besides the pure marvel, it additionally has a mirror maze impressed by the Alhambra in Granada. It’s product of 90 mirrors and creates limitless illusions as you make your means via the twists and turns. Just take into consideration all of the Instagram-worthy moments!

After wandering round for a few hours, head to the park subsequent door for a picnic lunch and to bask within the Swiss solar. 

18. Roam round a Nuclear Bunker

The Swiss are ready for something and it’s evident that the folks of Lucerne weren’t messing round when it got here to being geared up for a nuclear assault.

Lying beneath the town sits the enormous, unused Sonnenberg Bunker. It was constructed within the Seventies through the Cold War and might maintain 20,000 residents of Lucerne. At one level, this bunker was the most important one for civilians on this planet!

Every final Sunday of the month, guests are given the chance to descend into the bunker to discover this underground facility. You can even guide a personal tour in your group prematurely!

While wandering, you’ll come throughout emergency tools for hospital and decontamination use, in addition to extra generic objects like washing machines and bunk beds match for a complete metropolis. If you’re keen on quirky experiences, that is a one-of-a-kind go to!

19. Skydiving over Lucerne

Looking for some adrenaline throughout your keep in Lucerne? There’s no higher strategy to get your blood pumping than skydiving over Lake Lucerne!

First, you’ll fly 4,000 meters excessive, having fun with views of your complete environment. Then you’ll bounce out of a airplane hooked up to a professional teacher who will information you thru the Swiss Alps and over the pristine lake.

Catch a glimpse of the town as you rush in the direction of the bottom, solely to be greeted with a gentle touchdown upon returning to earth. Out of all of the methods to see Lucerne, that is actually probably the most thrilling. Another well-liked choice is to go paragliding in Lucerne.

Not positive what to anticipate from a skydive? Read about Tom’s expertise skydiving in Interlaken!

20. Rest in a Capsule Hotel

It ought to come as no shock that Switzerland is a fairly dear nation. That stated, you’ll be able to nonetheless discover some choices for lodging that gained’t fully break the financial institution.

One of our favourite finances choices is the Capsule Hotel that’s situated proper within the coronary heart of Lucerne. Not solely will you be paying an inexpensive value per evening, however you’ll have a singular sleeping expertise and be proper within the metropolis heart.

The capsules at this explicit lodge look somewhat futuristic so once you tuck in for a great evening’s sleep, think about you’re aboard a spaceship. Who is aware of, you might simply get up subsequent to Spock!

21. Visit the Rosengart Collection

Art followers rejoice! Sitting in the course of Lucerne is a post-Impressionist assortment that merely can’t be missed. 

The Rosengart Collection is taken into account to be probably the most excellent collections of contemporary artwork in all of Europe, that includes works from artists equivalent to Monet, Matisse, and Chagall. If these names don’t impress you, I’m positive that you could actually be enticed by a wonderful Picasso and Paul Klee as nicely. 

While strolling across the gallery, you’ll be capable to immerse your self virtually 300 items of artwork which are positive to WOW! Alternatively, you too can wander round The Lucerne Art Museum to see extra great items.

22. Immerse Yourself on the Bourbaki Panorama

A last vacation spot for all of the artwork lovers visiting Lucerne is the incredible panorama painted in 1871. This 10-by-112 meter scene wraps round a constructing and depicts the winter of 1871 when 87,000 French troopers sought refuge in Switzerland through the Franco-Prussian War.

Besides simply being a portray, this panorama incorporates sculptures as nicely to essentially make the scene come to life. It’s an immersive expertise that can actually spherical out any journey to Lucerne.

23. Engelberg-Titlis Day Trip

Engelberg-Titlis is simply 35 kilometers south of Lucerne, which is central Switzerland’s hugest trip vacation spot that holds one among Switzerland’s prime ski resorts. 

This village is well-liked because it has a 12^th-century Benedictine monastery. You can discover monks dwelling and dealing within the space as much as this present day. During summer time, there are lots of enjoyable outside actions to do like climbing, {golfing}, mountaineering, and extra. Come winter, you’ll be able to ski and snowboard all you need! When in Lucerne, you are able to do a half-day journey as they’re very shut to at least one one other. 

24. Walk Along the Lakeside Promenade

When crossing the Seebrücke bridge, stroll alongside the waterfront, the place you’re going to get to see a variety of grand buildings that date again to the tip of the 19^th century. From right here, you could find the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Grand Hotel National Luzern, Grand Casino Luzern, and a variety of different constructions price visiting. 

Walk additional the place you can see luxurious properties and extra vacationer sights. Fortunately, you’ll be able to keep cool as there’s a pedestrian promenade lined with timber for shade and recent air. From right here, you too can take pleasure in a variety of different actions and locations to go to, like boat leases, petanque video games, or cafes.

25. Learn on the Swiss Transport Museum

Paintings, not your factor?

Well, Lucerne can be residence to the Swiss Museum of Transport or Swiss Transport Museum, which is probably the most visited museum in all of Switzerland! 

Here, you’ll discover retired aircrafts, trains and automobiles stacked so excessive on prime of one another they practically attain the ceiling. The entrance of the museum itself is one thing to behold because it’s constructed from previous freeway indicators guiding you thru the nation. While strolling round, you’ll be confronted with greater than 3,000 shows!

There’s one thing for everybody at this museum, whether or not you’re fascinated by historical past, know-how, or in fact completely different modes of transportation.

Insider’s Tip: Want to avoid wasting time? Skip the road by shopping for your ticket on-line!

26. Indulge at a Cheese and Chocolate Tour

It wouldn’t be a visit to Switzerland with out gorging your self on the ever-famous Swiss cheese and chocolate.

During this all-inclusive tour, you’ll get to go to a cheese manufacturing facility inside a monastery. Learn how cheese is made, after which have the possibility to replenish on fondue or raclette. After that, you’ll get to wander the Aeschbach chocolate manufacturing facility for dessert. You’ll even have the chance to make your personal chocolate bar!

I’m unsure it will get any higher than cheese and chocolate…

27. Sip Wine Next to Lake Lucerne

Okay, I do know I stated it doesn’t get a lot better than cheese and chocolate, however what in the event you add wine into the equation?

While in Lucerne, take a visit to probably the most conventional vineyard within the area for a tour of the vineyards. Imagine having fun with a tasting with flawless views of Lake Lucerne!

The outing begins with a 30-minute cruise on Lake Lucerne, adopted by a leisurely stroll to the vineyards. You’ll be capable to take pleasure in beautiful sights, sip on native wines and snack, whereas surrounded by majestic mountains. You’re on trip, afterall, so you might as nicely take pleasure in your self!

28. Make a Toast at Brauerei Eichhof

More of a beer particular person? Don’t fear, Lucerne has simply the factor for you. 

Brauerei Eichhof is a 180-year previous brewery that makes, sells and serves up ice-cold ones all day lengthy. They a neighborhood favourite, so that you’ll see their beers whilst you’re out and about within the metropolis. But what higher place to have one than the place it’s made?

With a go to to Brauerei Eichhof, you’ll have the possibility to take a guided tour to see precisely how their well-known beer is made after which have the possibility to pattern all of it! 

29. Treat Yourself to a Luxury Hotel Stay

If you’re searching for luxurious lodging, there’s no higher choice than reserving the Penthouse within the Art Deco Hotel Montana.

From these beautiful rooms, you’ll be capable to totally immerse your self in panoramic views of Lake Lucerne, Old Town, and naturally the Swiss Alps. If you’re after extra than simply good sights, every Penthouse suite features a scorching tub on a personal rooftop terrace.

Talk about dwelling massive!

30. Summit Marvelous Mount Rigi

Mount Rigi is nicknamed the Queen of the mountains as she looms over Lucerne with a watchful eye.

Either hike to the summit or take the mountain railway to take pleasure in views of the alpine and past. Watching the sundown from the highest is an expertise that’s positive to final you a lifetime. 

Insider’s Tip: One of one of the best methods to see Mount Rigi is through the Classic Rigi Route! Take a mix of boat, rack railway, and cable automotive as you traverse from Lucerne to the mountains. This self-guided, full-day tour offers you one of the best of Mount Rigi. Get extra particulars right here.

For any upcoming journey to Lucerne, it is best to have a lot to do. From exploring the pure wonders of the area to strolling previous metropolis streets, actions are a lot and leisure considerable. 

This pretty Swiss city is a memorable place to study historical past, take pleasure in Swiss specialties, and have the go to of a lifetime.

Is there one thing you liked in Lucerne that we didn’t point out? Let us know within the feedback beneath!

Check out this Switzerland journey information for superior recommendations on the place to remain and what to do!

31. Go to the Heidegg Castle

This is a mere 30-minute drive from Lucerne and one among Switzerland’s oldest castles. The Schloss Heidegg has been round since 1192 and is Canton’s oldest recognized residential constructing. 

Today, Heidegg Castle is Seetal Valley’s historical past and cultural heart. This dwelling historical past museum will present guests extra in regards to the lifetime of the nation aristocracy from centuries in the past. 

If you’ve kids, head over to the grand playroom, the place the children can gown up as royalty! You could even head out to the citadel’s rose gardens, then their café for espresso and cake earlier than you allow. 

32. Head to the Franziskanerplatz and Franciscan Church

Franziskanerplatz is a beautiful city sq. in Lucerne and value visiting, even when many individuals overlook this place. It’s a must-visit due to its picturesque environment, with colourful conventional buildings. 

You can even go to the Franciscan Church when on this city, which was constructed within the 13^th century. While it appears to be like easy from the surface, you’ll marvel on the Gothic inside designs inside. Inside dons a formidable altar, beautiful pulpits, and angel-ceilings. 

Other church buildings price visiting whereas within the metropolis are Lucerne Jesuit Church which has a formidable facade and delightful interiors.

How to Get Around Lucerne

Since Lucerne is a small city, it’s simple to go round. Their public transport community consists of buses and native trains, with their ticket system being easy. The regional community is split right into a zone, the place you buy tickets for a sure zone. 

Everyone will love public transport, particularly the trains, as they’re all the time on time. Moreover, they’re quick, intensive, and dependable, which is why trains are your only option when exploring Lucerne and the entire of Switzerland. 

You may additionally hop on their buses, as they’ve an in depth bus system that’s corresponding to their trains. 

Where to Stay in Lucerne

When it comes to picking a lodge in Lucerne, you might be spoilt for alternative. Whether you’re touring solo, on a romantic getaway, or with an enormous group, you’ll be capable to discover tons of appropriate choices at a variety of value factors.

Here are just a few of our advisable resorts in Lucerne

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